Jain Dharm Aur Darshan

The book "Jain Dharm aur Darshan" by Munishri Pramansagar, published by Shiksha Bharti, offers a comprehensive exploration of Jainism and its philosophy. It aims to present this ancient Indian tradition to a modern audience, emphasizing its scientific and logical underpinnings.

Core Tenets of Jainism:

• Philosophy as Divine Vision: The book defines philosophy as a "divine vision," originating from deep contemplation on existence, the nature of the universe, consciousness, and the ultimate reality.
• Goal of Alleviating Suffering: A primary objective of philosophy, according to Indian traditions, is to remove the suffering inherent in life. It's not just about acquiring knowledge but also about internalizing it and living accordingly.
• Intertwined Nature of Religion and Philosophy: In India, religion and philosophy are seen as complementary. Philosophy analyzes existence through reason and thought, aiming for liberation (moksha), while religion provides the practical means to achieve that goal.
• Jainism as an Spiritual Philosophy: Jainism is characterized as an spiritualist philosophy, focusing on the soul and its journey.
• Four Pillars of Jainism: The book highlights four foundational principles:
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): In conduct.
  • Anekanta (Non-absolutism/Pluralism): In thought.
  • Syadvada (Conditional Predication): In speech.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): In society.
• Jainism as a Philosophy of Life: Jainism is presented not as abstract speculation but as a philosophy that translates into practical, everyday life.

Addressing the Modern Reader:

• Accessibility of Ancient Texts: The book acknowledges the vastness of Jain literature, primarily in ancient languages like Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Apabhramsha, which can be a barrier for the younger generation. It aims to bridge this gap by presenting Jain philosophy in accessible Hindi.
• Scientific and Rational Approach: Recognizing the modern audience's desire for scientific and logical explanations, the book endeavors to present Jain philosophy in a way that aligns with scientific inquiry and rational thinking.

Key Themes and Structure:

The book is structured into four parts, covering a wide range of Jain teachings:

1. Jain History: Provides a glimpse into the rich history of Jainism, tracing its origins and development. It addresses common misconceptions, such as equating Lord Mahavir with the founder, and emphasizes the antiquity of Jainism, dating back to the first Tirthankara, Lord Adinath. It also discusses the historical evidence supporting Jainism's pre-Vedic origins, including findings from the Indus Valley Civilization.
2. Tattva and Dravya (Principles and Substances): This section delves into the fundamental principles of Jainism, including:
   • Tattva Swarup (Nature of Principles): Discusses the philosophical queries of human existence and their Jain solutions.
   • Dravya Viveshan (Analysis of Substances): Explains the Jain concept of reality as composed of six eternal substances (Jiva, Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, Kala).
   • Jiva and its States: Examines the soul (Jiva) and its various states of existence.
   • Ajeeva Tattva (Non-living Substance): Details the nature of non-living matter (Pudgala).
   • Karma Bandha (Bondage of Karma): Explains the process of karma binding to the soul.
   • Karma and its Types: Elaborates on the different categories and classifications of karma.
   • Karma Mukti (Liberation from Karma): Outlines the methods of achieving liberation through Samvara (cessation of karma influx) and Nirjara (shedding of existing karma).
   • Moksha (Liberation): Describes the ultimate goal of Jainism and the path to achieve it.
   • Moksha Sadhan (Means to Liberation): Discusses the path of self-development and spiritual advancement.
   • Ahimsa: Explores the profound concept of non-violence in Jainism.
   • Shravakachara: Details the code of conduct for lay followers.
   • Municharya: Outlines the rigorous practices of Jain monks.
   • Sellekhana: Discusses the sacred practice of voluntary fasting unto death.
   • Anekanta and Syadvada: Explains the core philosophical concepts of Jainism concerning multifaceted reality and conditional predication.

Author's Intent and Gratitude:

• Honoring Tradition: Muni Pramansagar humbly states that the content is not new but derived from the teachings of past acharyas. His effort is to present these teachings in a new dimension for wider accessibility.
• Acknowledging Guidance: The author expresses deep gratitude to his spiritual guide, Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Maharaj, whose blessings were instrumental in the creation of this work.
• Appreciation for Scholars: He also thanks the purvacharyas and modern scholars whose works provided support and inspiration for the book.

Overall Message:

"Jain Dharm aur Darshan" serves as a guide to understanding the scientific and spiritual depth of Jainism. It aims to make the complex philosophical concepts of Jainism comprehensible and relevant to contemporary readers, fostering a greater appreciation for its ethical principles and practices, particularly its emphasis on non-violence, self-control, and the pursuit of liberation. The book is seen as a valuable resource for both those new to Jainism and those seeking a deeper understanding of its philosophy.